Technology/IP

Star on a Chip

High-temperature thermal emitters from 4K-MEMS generate intense, broadband infrared radiation in an ultra-miniaturized form factor, enabling the next generation of embedded photonic sensing systems.

Infrared Light

What is special about infrared light?

With visible light, we can see the color of an object. By analyzing reflected or transmitted  infrared light, we can “see” the chemistry within. Near-infraRed (NIR) in particular can be used to identify and measure organic materials, plastics, and the presence of water.

Currently, NIR is used in industrial environments to sort plastic or analyze feed quality. In the lab, new applications are continuously being developed and may soon find their way to commercial and consumer applications. 

The Mid Infrared spectrum ranges from 3 to 8 microns. Here quantitative gas sensing is possible as a result of absorption bands. An important example is carbon dioxide, absorbing at 4.3 microns.   

The possibilities are endless. 

Light Generation

Higher quality broadband NIR light results in a higher quality spectrum, containing more reliable and actionable information.

Traditional IR spectroscopy uses tungsten sources not suited for embedded systems. LEDs, exceptionally performing in the visual band, are ineffective in generating broadband illumination and, at longer wavelengths, become increasingly inefficient.

4K-MEMS emitters cover the entire NIR/SWIR electromagnetic spectrum, and extending into the visible and mid infrared, bridging the gap between visual LEDs and longer wavelengths thermal emitters.

Light Detection

The use of NIR light is only possible if it can also be detected. New NIR detector technologies are being developed, making the NIR spectrum more accessible than ever.

New applications are emerging with the proliferation of InGaAs and extended InGaAs cameras. The development of high-efficiency, low-cost detectors covering the visual to three micrometer spectrum brings within reach sensing opportunities previously impossible. A matching source allows future analysis platforms to fully leverage the new detectors.

4K-MEMS Emitters

Chip size emitters generate near infrared light.

  • Emission band: 0.8-5 microns

  • True broadband

  • High efficiency

  • Minimal footprint, SMD format

  • Lambertian emission profile

  • Modulated or continuous emission

  • Low cost

  • Accommodation by the modular design of a range of sizes, architectures, and emission powers

Dynamic IP portfolio

At 4K-MEMS, ideas drive our progress. Our products are built on disruptive innovation, and our patents keep us at the forefront of the industry. With a dynamic IP strategy and a commitment to continuous innovation, we are constantly developing the next generation of IR emitters. We now have nine patent families across key areas, including:

  • Core technology for light generation

  • Enhanced efficiency for the most advanced broadband IR sources

  • Novel packaging that simplifies optical integration and optimizes light-to-sensor coupling

  • Diverse applications

Three of our patents have been accepted, and we are securing protection in Europe, the US, China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. Our expanding IP portfolio is shaping the future of our products—and we're just getting started.